Summary

Intel 82574L Ethernet Controllers contain a vulnerability that could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on the targeted system.

The vulnerability is due to improper processing of valid but specially crafted network packets. An unauthenticated, remote attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending malicious network packets to the targeted device. If successful, the attacker could cause the device to stop responding to network traffic, resulting in a DoS condition.

Proof of concept code is publicly available.

Intel has confirmed the vulnerability and corrected the manufacturing defect.

Indicators of Compromise

Systems and devices using the Intel 82574L Gigabit Ethernet Controller on certain affected motherboards are vulnerable.

Technical Information

The vulnerability is due to improper handling of values in network packets processed by the affected device. The processing of certain hex values in a network packet could cause the network interface to stop responding.

An unauthenticated, remote attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending malicious network packets to the targeted device. When processed, values in the packet could cause the network interface to stop responding to network traffic, resulting in a DoS condition.

Analysis

Intel has confirmed the vulnerability as a manufacturing defect with a third-party motherboard manufacturer. Intel reports the manufacturing process has been corrected. Because only certain types of motherboards from certain manufacturers are affected, the number of affected systems is likely limited.

Although no functional exploits are available, technical details exist that could aid in the creation of exploit code.

System recovery may require power-cycling a targeted device, making recovery difficult. However, in the case of exploitation, the overall system remains operational, reducing the impact of exploitation.

Safeguards

Administrators are advised to contact the vendor regarding future updates and releases.

Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.

Administrators can help protect affected systems from external attacks by using a solid firewall strategy.

Affected Products

The security vulnerability applies to the following combinations of products.

Primary Products

Intel Corporation

Intel 82574L Gigabit Ethernet Controller

Original Release (Base)

Associated Products

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